The College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) at Makerere University organized a counselling and guidance session for Architecture students following the death of their colleague, the late Kevin Kabuye.
The session, held in the Year Four studio on Monday, October 5th 2026, aimed to provide psychosocial support, guidance, and encouragement while fostering resilience and solidarity within the student community. It brought together students, lecturers, parents, professional leaders, and counsellors to offer comfort and practical support during a difficult period of grief and loss.
Speakers included parent representative Mugume Rina, Chairperson of the Architects Registration Board, Arch. Miriam Lawino, CEDAT Deputy Principal, Associate Prof. Kizito Maria Kasule, and Connie Kharono from the Makerere University Counselling and Guidance Centre, as well as the lecturers led by the Head of Department Architecture, Dr. Ssemwogerere Kenneth. The speakers shared messages of comfort, strength, hope, and resilience, encouraging students to support one another and remain focused on their personal wellbeing and academic aspirations.
Addressing the students, the speakers emphasized the importance of seeking help when overwhelmed, maintaining strong support networks, and embracing healthy coping mechanisms during periods of grief. They noted that loss can be challenging to navigate but that healing is strengthened through community, compassion, and mutual support.
Arch. Miriam Lawino encouraged the students to honor the memory of their departed colleague by remaining united and committed to their academic and professional goals. She urged them to draw strength from one another and from the values that underpin the architecture profession.
Representing parents, Mugume Rina reassured students that they were not alone in their grief and called upon them to lean on family, friends, and university support systems as they process the loss.
Ms. Connie Kharono from the Makerere University Counselling and Guidance Centre highlighted the importance of mental health and reminded students that counselling services remain available to support them whenever needed. They encouraged students to openly discuss their challenges and seek professional assistance without fear or stigma.
The session provided an opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and healing, with students encouraged to share experiences and receive guidance on coping with grief. Participants were reminded that while the loss of a colleague leaves a significant void, hope, resilience, and collective support can help individuals and communities move forward.
CEDAT reaffirmed its commitment to supporting students’ wellbeing and fostering a caring learning environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.